In this chapter, Candace addresses self-discipline and uses the Proverbs 31 woman as an example of what this looks like. I was convicted as I read:

A life of sacrifice is an act of spiritual worship. I don’t suppose the Proverbs 31 woman particularly liked getting up while it was still dark, lighting a fire while the others remained warm in their beds. And I don’t think it will be easy for you in the beginning either. The first time you pass up a bag of chips, turn down some chocolate, or settle for water instead of a can of soda will be difficult, but I believe without any uncertainty that in time you will be happy with the changes you’ve made.”

My self-discipline needs work. I have good intentions — getting up early to exercise, saying “no” to chocolate — but often my efforts last for a week before I cave. And this week I’m visiting family in Colorado. Since we have less variety in restaurants and authentic international cuisine in our corner of Missouri, I’m tempted to over-indulge in all of the food I use to enjoy when I lived here — Chinese, Thai, Mexican, Middle Eastern. It’s been a struggle to remind myself of the importance of balance and moderation.

I love what Darlene has to say about this chapter. It’s a great reminder for me.

Candace reminds us that reshaping it all isn’t something that happens overnight. In fact, it can take several months for our physical and psychological muscles to form. I think that this is the very reason that so many people give up along the way. We live in a time of instant gratification, and we’ve become accustomed to living that way. Just watch a person who’s waiting for a slow web page to load and you’ll see what I mean.

Ever have one of those weeks where the plateau gets you so low that you give up all together? Have you ever wondered what might have happened if you would have waited one more week? My guess is that the scale would have moved.

If we stop to think about it for just a minute, we might see the many opportunities that we’ve lost over the course of our lifetime because we gave up just before things were about to change.

It’s your choice, and it always has been. Are you going to stick it out, or will you throw in the towel the minute you don’t see results?

Ashleigh Slater is the author of Team Us: Marriage Together and the editor of Ungrind. As a regular contributor at several blogs and websites, she loves to unite the power of a good story with biblical truth and practical application to encourage others. She has 20 years of writing experience and a master’s degree in communication. Ashleigh lives in Atlanta with her husband Ted and four daughters. You can follow her on Instagram here.

Welcome to Ungrind!

Hi, I'm Ashleigh Slater, founder and editor of Ungrind. Here at Ungrind, it’s our goal to churn out biblically-based encouragement for women. We strive to be honest and transparent about our struggles in a way that inspires hope, faith, and perseverance. As you read, we hope you consider us friends; the kind you feel comfortable sitting across the table with at the local coffee shop. You can read more about me HERE and our team of writers HERE.

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